Lord Randyll Tarly catches Robett Glover outside of Duskendale and traps him against Blackwater Bay. Ser Helman Tallhart is killed during the fierce battle,[8] which takes places in the fields and farms outside Duskendale.[7] There are heavy losses on both sides, including possibly a thousand dead northmen. As Robett falls back toward Harrenhal he encounters Ser Gregor Clegane near the kingsroad,[2] and the northern host is broken.[5]

The northern foot is destroyed, which hurts Robb Stark's ability to retake the north. It is later revealed that Roose Bolton had secretly defected to the Lannister side and in his attempt to diminish the northern lords' ability to attack him, he had sent much of the northern army to its destruction.[5][11][12][13]

The northmen are buried in a common grave by the sea marked only by a wooden sign reading "HERE LIE THE WOLVES", while Randyll Tarly's less numerous dead are buried in heroes' tombs beneath the septs of Duskendale. Brienne of Tarth notices many used weapons, armor, and clothing from the battle available for sale at Duskendale's market square.[7]